Top 10 Things to See and Do in Iceland

If we say the word “Iceland,” many of you will immediately conjure up images of stunning natural beauty. and lakes Quiet, stunning castles and delicious fish dishes.

But there is so much more to discover in Iceland, so we'll take you on a tour to introduce you to the top ten things to see and do in this wonderful country.

Whale watching

Iceland could be one of the best places in the world for whale watching.

In fact, the best spots in Iceland for whale watching (although whales can be spotted along the coast), there are some amazing prime spots where you can see them.

Húsavík is Iceland's premier whale watching destination, a small town of just 182 people surrounded by stunning green hills.

You can also watch whales at any time of the year in Iceland.

But the best period is during the summer (June – September) when the warm seas are full of krill and small fish, the whale's favorite food.

Whale watching in Iceland

Vestrahorn Mountain - Iceland

Imagine this beautiful view, you are sitting on the shore of a beautiful lake with crystal clear water cascading over your toes, a flat black sand beach stretching out in front of you and at the end of it one of the most stunning peaks in Iceland.

This 454-meter (1,489-foot) tall mountain is one of the best places to visit during your trip to Iceland.

Due to the rural location and the charming and spacious nature, there is no crowding in this place, and photography enthusiasts will be able to capture amazing shots.

You can also enjoy strolling along the unique black sand beach, petting Icelandic ponies and if you're lucky you might see some seals too.

You can visit the area at any time of the year, but remember that in winter it will be cold and icy, so the trip may be somewhat difficult.

Vesthorn Mountain, Iceland

Hot springs in Iceland

Not only is it fun (as far as hot springs go), it's also a fairly rare natural phenomenon.

There are only about 1,000 hot springs on the entire planet.

These are natural springs, the most famous and largest of which is located in Iceland in the Haukadalur Valley, a 90-minute drive from the capital, Reykjavik.

Although this giant spring is currently classified as dormant, it is the first European spring to be discovered.

When active, it shoots boiling water up to 70 metres (229 feet) into the air.

Hot springs in Iceland

Landman

Iceland is home to many magical landscapes, from its multi-coloured mountains and winding paths, to its crystal clear lakes and hot springs.

But where can you find all these amazing natural phenomena in just one area?

The answer is of course in Landmannalaugar, and you may also wonder what makes the colours of the mountains in this area so unique.

The secret lies in the fact that the peaks of these mountains are made of lava filled with minerals called rhyolite, which when it cools slowly creates bright rainbow-like color patches.

It is worth noting that the area is only accessible during the summer months, from June to September, and for the rest of the year the roads are closed.

Landmannalaugar, Iceland

Hallgrimskirkja

Surprisingly, its design was inspired by the volcanic basalt columns that are found throughout the Icelandic countryside.

Why should you visit this place? Because there are wonderful and attractive views that you will see from the top of the hill on which the church is located.

You can also take part in an evening tour that will take you around Reykjavik and the surrounding area to discover more history and folklore.

The best time to visit this place is from mid-June to mid-August.

There is a list of activities you can participate in at this time of year.

Hallgrimskirkja, Reykjavik, Iceland

Dyrhólaey Coast

This black sand beach has a stunning view that you will not find anywhere else.

120 metres (393 feet) long coastline that you can enjoy walking on.

You can also stand on the high edges surrounding it to feel like you are standing on the edge of the end of the world.

The stunning views you will see there wherever you look will make this place a top priority when visiting Iceland.

Looking north, you'll see the stunning Mýrdalsjökull glacier (the fourth largest ice cap in Iceland).

Looking east you will see the interesting rock formations of Reynisdrangar.

While to the west you will see a seemingly endless black sand coastline.

But just a reminder that the area is primarily a bird sanctuary.

As such, the reserve portion is closed during the nesting season in May and June, and the exact dates vary from year to year.

Dyrhólaey Coast, Iceland

Ice caves in Vatnajokull glacier

Deep within the Vatnajökull Glacier, there is an ever-changing icy world that you should definitely discover if you are an adventurer.

Covering an area of 8,100 square kilometres, it is the largest glacier in Europe and covers a whopping 8% of the country.

If you are wondering whether it is safe to visit these caves without a guided tour or guide.

Regardless of your experience, we recommend a guided tour.

No one will stop you from entering them, but the caves are constantly changing and it is best to have a well-trained person with you to ensure your safety.

The best time to visit the ice caves is from November to March, when the weather is cold enough to ensure the stability of the caves.

Ice caves at Vatnajokull glacier, Iceland

Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland

These magical lights are still one of the wonders of the world, which are formed as a result of solar energy particles entering the Earth's magnetic field and being attracted to the North Pole.

To see the aurora borealis you need good planning and luck.

In Iceland, it is visible for about 8 months of the year, unlike other countries.

The best time to see the aurora is between October and April, but peak visibility is from December to February.

However, you must follow a certain simple plan to see it, which is to select an hour when it is completely dark.

With no moonlight and no cloud cover, choosing the right time and place both.

There is no definitive way to predict the activity of this landscape, but there are some apps and websites that can help you.

Northern Lights in Iceland

A tour to see many amazing waterfalls

Iceland is famous for its stunningly beautiful sites and over 10,000 of these sites contain waterfalls.

From the 3-metre (9-foot) high Bruarfoss to the 240-metre (787-foot) Mersi Waterfall.

No trip to Iceland is complete without seeing these amazing sites.

There are many waterfalls to visit, and we think the best ones are Skogafoss, Seljalandsfoss and Gullfoss which should definitely top your travel list.

Skogafoss, Iceland

Visit the capital Reykjavik

Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is one of those places you can't miss spending an evening or two in during your trip.

Make sure to head there during the weekend when the streets and restaurants are full of friendly life and an amazing atmosphere.

You should also explore the beautiful city in all its details, including visiting its various landmarks such as Hallgrímskirkja Cathedral, as we mentioned earlier.

Or visit the Harpa Concert Hall, home of the prestigious National Opera.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Top 10 Things to See and Do in Iceland